Spain’s lower house of parliament has approved legislation granting Spanish citizenship to Sahrawis born during the period when Spain administered Western Sahara. The bill passed with 168 votes in favour, 31 against and 145 abstentions, and would also allow eligible citizens’ descendants to apply for citizenship.

The move could benefit an estimated 70,000 to 110,000 Sahrawis. Spain ruled Western Sahara from 1884 until 1976, after which Morocco asserted control over much of the territory. The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, continues to seek independence for Western Sahara.

The citizenship decision could further complicate Spain’s already sensitive relationship with Morocco. Spain shifted its position in 2022 by backing Morocco’s proposal for autonomy in Western Sahara, after previously supporting a UN-backed referendum on the territory’s future.

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